Have you ever thought about buying a quality heirloom tablecloth that you can use on special occasions and then pass down to the next generation when you are finished with it? What are the things you should take into consideration? Here are four tips when buying a tablecloth for the Holidays or for any special occasion:
Table size. What is the size of your table? Measure the width and length. What drop do you want? Do you want the tablecloth to hang 10” from the edge of the table to the bottom of the hem? For example, if you have a rectangular table that measures 68” long and your desired drop is 10”, multiply by 2 to factor both sides of the table (10 x 2 is 20). Add 20 to the length of 68” which is 88.” Your desired tablecloth length would be 88.” Standard drops in tablecloths range from 6” - 12.” Less than 6” and the tablecloth looks too little for the table. Too long and the tablecloth may fall in the laps of guests which can be catastrophic if they get up to leave the table and the tablecloth goes with them! A round table’s size is calculated a little differently. Multiply your desired length by 2, then measure the table through the diameter from one side to the other. If your round table has a 50” diameter and you want a 10” drop, the calculation is (10 x 2 = 20) plus 50” equals 70.” Your tablecloth should be a 70” round one. The rule of thumb for all tablecloths is if you cannot find the exact size you want, then size up to the next available one.
Quality. What to look for in a quality tablecloth. When buying an heirloom tablecloth look for one made of linen, cotton, or a linen-cotton blend. Inspect the weave of the fabric for consistency. For a rectangular tablecloth inspect the corners. Are they mitered for a finished look? Are the stitches even and straight? What about the colors in the design? Are they vibrant and the same throughout the tablecloth? Is the design one you won’t tire of? Will it stand the test of time?
Price. Prices will vary. A tablecloth of great quality produced in a mill that inspects all of their products before leaving the mill will be more expensive than one that is mass produced. France and Italy are famous for the quality of their linens. Look for linens from these countries and you will easily see the fine details that make them so exquisite. Remember, it may seem like an expensive investment when you first purchase a fine tablecloth, but over time the cost will be minimized by the number of times it is used and the length of time you will have it. If your budget does not allow for this one time purchase, buy what you can afford. If you don’t love the tablecloth, don’t buy it. You will not use it if you truly do not love it.
Care. Always launder your tablecloth before storing it. Make sure to inspect for stains beforehand and treat them accordingly. Store the tablecloth away from light and dust. Many heirloom tablecloths are machine washable. Check the label on the tablecloth and follow the washing and drying instructions. If you are uncomfortable doing this, then seek the assistance of a professional.
My Chic Farmhouse sells rectangular, round and square tablecloths made in Italy. Our prices are very reasonable. Come in and we will show you the intricacies of our tablecloths and why our customers who buy them are never disappointed!